Govt directs authorities to launch investigation against 'sugar mafia'

The Federal Government on Monday has taken a major decision to crack down on the 'sugar mafia.'

As per details, the government has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to begin the investigation on the basis of the Sugar Commission report.

The Competition Commission was also asked to explain the delay in taking action against the sugar mafia.

Special Assistant to Prime Minister for Accountability and Internal Affairs Shehzad Akbar has written letters to six institutions and three provinces. The letters are based on the Sugar Commission report, which directs the FBR, SECP, and FIA to conduct further investigations and also to submit an implementation report within 90 days.

The letter directed the FBR, NAB, SECP, FIA, Governor State Bank of Pakistan, and the Competition Commission of Pakistan.

Sending the Sugar Commission report along with the letters, it was directed that NAB should determine the culprits in the light of the findings of the Sugar Commission report.

Whereas, the SBP should investigate the misuse of sugar reserves and suspicious exports and submit a comprehensive report on all sugar mills. Furthermore, FIA and SECP should investigate corporate fraud and determine those responsible.

The letter sought clarification from the Competition Commission on the delay in taking action against the sugar mafia and directed an inquiry into the non-supply of sugar to the utility stores, and hoarding.

The letter to the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh directed a further investigation into various sugar mills. Under the letter, the provinces have been directed to take legal action against sugar mills buying sugarcane from farmers at low prices, and the matter should be investigated by the provincial anti-corruption department.